Rohnert Park’s finances are a mixed bag, with increases in property and sales taxes, as well as the tax hotel guests pay, according to the city's mid-year budget details.
But there has also been additional spending on retiree medical benefits, payroll and Public Works, giving the city a projected deficit of nearly $1 million by June 2013.
These and other numbers will be presented at the city’s mid-year budget review when the council meets Tuesday starting 5pm.
Other increases include a 72 percent spike for public safety, after the city purchased four new police vehicles and spent another $155,000 on workers’ compensation claims.
The city also spent $37,000 more this year fighting lawsuits and claims, as well as more money on economic development, including $3,900 to two consultants who coached the city about how to “be more business friendly” at a series of recent "economic prosperity" workshops.
More troubling, Rohnert Park’s recreational facilities are losing money, including the Spreckels Performing Arts Center, which is $180,000 in the hole, community pools (reporting a $53,000 deficit) and Senior Center, reporting a similar $43,000 deficit.
City Manager Gabe Gonzalez could not be immediately reached for comment, but is expected to address the shortfall at Tuesday’s meeting.
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